Gyokeres to Arsenal in jeopardy as striker's father reportedly breaks down in tears over Sporting's demand

The Gyokeres deal is in serious jeopardy. Sporting remains firm on their €80 million asking price for the 27-year-old goalscorer. Arsenal has been silent for six days, and the possibility of them ever meeting Sporting's valuation is dwindling.

The risk of collapse is high, and even the player's family recognises that a move to London is increasingly unlikely. The situation has reportedly brought Gyokeres' father to tears.

Initially, back in June, Arsenal proposed €55 million plus €10 million in add-ons for the Swedish striker. A formal offer was never submitted because they realised their expectation of securing the deal for around €60-70 million was unrealistic.

The player's agent had claimed to have a message from Sporting's now-departed Hugo Viana (current Sporting Director at Manchester City) suggesting that price.

Viana allegedly made the promise of a reduced fee almost a year ago as an acknowledgement of Gyokeres staying another season at Sporting and for foregoing potentially more lucrative contracts in 2023 to embrace the club's project.

Arsenal increased their offer, though not sufficiently, and the deal nearly collapsed. It was revived, albeit with entrenched positions and a tense atmosphere. However, no agreement was reached, and now the transfer is once again in serious danger of falling apart.

Sporting wants €80 million, achievable in their view, and not a penny less. Since the London club offered €63.5 million plus €10 million in bonuses, the player's agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, waived his commission (approximately €7 million).

The sticking point remains the bonus clauses, which Sporting wants to be realistic and easily attainable. While some bonuses based on blocks of 20 appearances (worth €2.5 million each) are acceptable, others are far from agreeable to Sporting.

This was discussed on Monday. No agreement was reached, and Arsenal has not been in contact with Sporting's management since.

Hope of a transfer to Arsenal is fading, leaving the player's family devastated. Sources indicate they believe the striker deserved better treatment from the club after his contributions. His father is reportedly the most distraught and has been unable to hold back tears.

Viktor Gyokeres, contracted with Sporting until 2028 with a €100 million release clause, has missed training for eight days, did not travel with the team to the Algarve Stadium, and is facing disciplinary action from the club.